If you’re looking for a charming and picturesque destination in the Netherlands, look no further than Appingedam. Located in the province of Groningen, this small town is full of history and character. Founded around 1200 on the banks of the Delf (now known as Damsterdiep), Appingedam’s name reflects its origins as a dam built in the Appe or Apt. In 1327, the town was granted city rights by the free Frisians of the Upstalboom near Aurich.
Despite its small size, Appingedam has plenty to offer visitors. Its most famous sight is the hanging kitchens above the Damsterdiep, which are a unique and fascinating architectural feature. These suspended kitchens were built over the canal in the 19th century and are a testament to the city’s rich history. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the canal to see the Hanging Kitchens and learn more about their history.
While Appingedam may no longer be the thriving seaport and trading competitor to Groningen that it once was, its charm remains undiminished. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just soaking up the atmosphere of a quaint Dutch town, Appingedam is definitely worth a visit. Exploring the town center is another great activity. The town center is small but charming, with winding streets and beautiful bridges crossing over the canal “Damsterdiep”.
When we visit somewhere in the Netherlands, we often save museum visits for less sunny moments. This is because the weather can change quickly and it’s nice to have indoor activities like museums to visit on dull, windy or rainy days. One museum that’s great to visit with children is the Museum Møhlmann in Appingedam. This museum features realistic and figurative art and has a beautiful garden.
The stolen church bells
On 1580, soldiers from the city of Groningen stole church bells from Appingedam and Farmsum to replace the church bells in the Martini Tower in Groningen which had been destroyed when the tower caught fire during a celebration on March 15, 1577. The stolen bells were triumphantly displayed in the Grote Markt in Groningen, much to the dismay of the residents of Appingedam and Farmsum. This event is well-documented in historical sources and remains a fascinating episode in the history of these towns. Imagine the sound of those bells ringing out across the countryside as they were transported to their new home in Groningen.
Outdoor Activities and Their Health Benefits in Appingedam
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging activity for your family near Appingedam, why not check out Kabouterpad Steendam? This 2.3 km long trail offers a scavenger hunt map and fun tasks for children. Read more about it in this blog post.
Appingedam and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of outdoor activities that are not only fun but also beneficial for your health. From hiking and cycling to swimming and bird watching, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a table that lists some of the outdoor activities available in Appingedam along with their health benefits:
| Activity | Health Benefits |
| Hiking | Improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, reduces stress |
| Cycling | Increases endurance, strengthens muscles, improves joint mobility |
| Picnicking | Encourages healthy eating habits, promotes relaxation and social bonding |
| Egg-races (Eierlopen) | Improves balance and coordination, promotes teamwork |
| Swimming | Improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, increases flexibility |
| Running | Improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, reduces stress |
| Yoga | Increases flexibility, improves balance and posture, reduces stress |
| Kayaking | Increases upper body strength, improves cardiovascular fitness, reduces stress |
| Bird Watching | Promotes relaxation and mindfulness, improves mental well-being |
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